SUN Bucks benefits will soon expire, cutting off food assistance for many American families, according to a recent SNAP update.
In order to help families with children who are of school age during the summer, the USDA launched the SUN Bucks program.
Many American households have found this endeavor to be an indispensable resource.
Benefits granted this summer will expire 122 days after their “Available” date; keep this in mind as we approach the end of 2024.
Here’s how to get the most out of your SUN Bucks before they’re gone for good.
Summer SUN Bucks: What Are They?
When school lunches aren’t available, qualifying families can use SUN Bucks, sometimes known as Summer EBT, to buy groceries.
Families are able to buy healthy food with these benefits put onto EBT cards, which function similarly to debit cards.
Who Can Receive SUN Bucks and How Are They Distributed?
Thousands of kids are eligible for SUN Bucks just because they fit certain requirements.
Included in this category are students who are ineligible for free or reduced-price school lunches, those whose families receive Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) or Work First (TANF), those who are in foster care, those experiencing homelessness, and those enrolled in Head Start programs.
Families don’t need to reapply for SUN Bucks if they were granted between July 1, 2024, and August 31, 2024.
When Will My SUN Bucks expire?
Your Summer 2024 benefits will be null and void 122 days after the “Available” date.
The benefits will expire on October 1, 2024, for example, if they were received on June 1, 2024. These perks are irreplaceable, so make sure to use them up before they’re gone.
If you should receive any notifications, be sure to pay attention to them.
In February 2024, 35 States Will Get More SNAP Payments
When your benefits are about to expire, you will receive a notice, either electronically or in written form, at least 30 days in advance.
Per the regulations set out by the USDA and the NCDHHS, any SUN Bucks that remain unused following this notification will be null and void.
Where Can I Find My Account Balance and When Will It Expire?
To view when your SUN Bucks will expire and how much you have left, you can use the EBT Cardholder Portal, the EBT customer care phone number, or the mobile app. Maintaining your benefits is crucial if you do not want to lose them.
Helpful Hints for Maximizing Your Sun Bucks
Make a list of everything you need before you go shopping so you can spend your rewards wisely on healthy food.
To get more bang for your buck, keep an eye out for sales and buy things at discounted prices.
Making Use of Community Resources: Families that use SUN Bucks may be eligible for discounts or extra help from certain local organizations.
Many families have relied on the SUN Bucks program as a summer safety net.
You must make prudent use of your benefits before they expire in 2024 to avoid wasting them.
Look at the USDA’s website or the one for your state’s Department of health and Human Services for more details.
Get in touch with the SUN Bucks support staff or utilize the website’s chatbot if you need any assistance.